Job Interview Question & Answer: Would You Retire If You Had Enough Money To Do So?
Why Employers Ask
Asking job hopefuls, “If you had enough money to retire now, would you?” is a common interview question. Generally, employers ask hypotheticals about retirement to assess attitudes toward work. Interviewees motivated by money alone might seem like lazy workers. The training and hiring process is an investment in you, so interviewers want to be sure of your commitment to the job.
How To Answer
The most complete and successful responses to “If you had enough money to retire right now, would you?” include brief descriptions of why job candidates feel as though retiring would prove the best option or not. Sharing your reasoning and emphasizing rewarding aspects of work besides a paycheck are crucial.
- Respond to the question: Sometimes job candidates are so thrown by this interview question that they fail to answer firmly one way or the other. Begin by stating whether you would or wouldn’t retire, then follow up with an explanation that highlights your view of the purpose of work and its role in your future plans.
- Discuss career goals besides money: To reassure employers that you are working for more than a salary, focus on how contributing to the company would foster your personal growth. Interviewees may even mention specific career goals and reasons why retirement would stand in the way of such ambitions. Taking this route can help applicants answer truthfully.
- Consider proximity to retirement: Applicants near retirement age may lose out on job opportunities if they reveal intentions to leave the position after a brief period. Candidates in this situation should share intentions to contribute to society through a career as long as possible. Briefly mentioning retirement plans allows candidates to remain honest while still receiving consideration for work.
Replies to Avoid
Job hopefuls should always answer interview questions with the truth. However, responding in a way that’s honest and shows consideration for the company will make the best impression. For example, replying that you would retire because you’re just in it for money may show a lack of work ethic. On the other hand, a simple “Yes” or “No” lacks depth. Employers want thoughtful answers.
Example Responses for “Would You Retire If You Had Enough Money to Do So?”
Answering this question can be hard for some applicants, so considering a reply before the job interview process will help candidates create a well-reasoned and honest response. To start brainstorming about your answer, look at the sample replies below. However, be sure to give a personalized response that fits your beliefs and situation.
Sample Answer 1 – Grocery Store Manager
“I don’t think money is the right reason to retire. While it would be nice not to worry about finances, I’d keep working even if I had the option to stop. Problem-solving and daily interactions with people, whether it’s managing my team or helping customers, energize me and make my day.”
“The reason I sought out this position was that I’m excited about the possibility of working with a larger team and taking on more responsibility. I plan to invest in these employees and this company for the long haul.”
Sample Answer 2 – Barista
“I wouldn’t retire now even if I could. I’m just at the start of my career, and I’m so excited to continue building my customer service and drink-making skills. I’m also the type of person who needs to stay busy and find productive things to do to occupy my time. So, even if I had the money, I doubt I would retire.”
“Also, I’m an extrovert, and I enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life, so I can’t imagine I would stop working even if I didn’t need the paycheck. Coffee is such an important part of people’s daily rituals, and it makes me genuinely happy to get their days started off well or offer them an afternoon pick-me-up.”
Summary: Would You Retire Right Now If You Had the Money?”
Hypothetical questions give managers insight into a candidate’s feelings about work and money. A good answer will include your career goals or aspirations toward personal growth. Be sure to provide a response beyond a simple “Yes” or “No” answer, and keep the company’s best interests in mind.
